Cancer Free Lawn

As scary as this sounds, of the 30 commonly used lawn pesticides, 19 are linked to cancer or carcinogencity. The truth is the pesticides drain into the underground water and then we drink and bathe in this water. Some 100 million pounds of pesticides are used by homeowners in homes and gardens each year. Suburban lawns and gardens are known to receive far heavier pesticide applications per acre than most other land areas in the U.S., including agricultural areas. (Source: Beyondpesticides.org)

So what can we do about it without sacrificing a green healthy lawn. There are lots to do.

Here are five great Lawn Care Tips to start a Cancer Free Lawn.

1. Organic Fertilizers – Feed Responsibly

True “organic” fertilizers (non-toxic) come from natural plant matter, animal waste by-product, and mineral sources. When these products are applied to the lawn, soil microorganisms break down the nutrients into a form that plants can absorb. Organic fertilizers release nutrients slowly, as plants need them. However, you still need to follow the directions so to avoid overfeeding your lawn, and yes, you can overdo organic fertilizers. The best time to apply a low dose of fertilizer is in the early fall and in early spring. The ground needs to be cool not cold or frozen.

2. Watering Responsibly

“Water Deeply but Not Too Often.” Thorough watering will encourage your lawn to develop a deep root system which makes the lawn hardier and more drought-resistant. The key is to let the lawn dry out before re-watering. If the color is dull and footprints stay compressed for more than a few seconds:it is time to water. When watering, put a cup in the sprinkler zone; it should get at least one inch (2.5cm) water. Most healthy lawns require only 1″ of water per week.

Another suggestion for watering is the right timing so the best time for watering is early morning. This way there is less water lost to evaporation. Ideally, it’s better to water the first half-inch or so, then wait for an hour or two before watering the second half-inch.

Water Barrels – Southern states may offer rebates for purchasing rain barrels. Water early in the morning. Buy grass seed for your region. What a great way to recycle captured rain water. Very cool.

3. Composting

Applying compost to lawns reduces water consumption. Drop small pile around your lawn and larger lawns use a spreader. Composting encourages healthy good looking lawns. The requirements for good compost is proper air, moisture, fragment size, green matter, dry matter, and heat. Your compost structure (or compost pile) must be at a minimum of seven cubic feet to provide enough heat, air, and moisture for adequate decomposition and compost requirement.

4. Mowing

Mow Often, but Not Too Short. Don’t cut your lawn too short this way the surface roots become exposed, and the soil dries out faster. The lawn surface aeration will be reduced. As a general rule, don’t cut off more than one-third of the grass at any one time. Most grass species are healthiest when kept between 2.5 and 3.5″ tall.

In late summer or early fall, when the lawn is finished growing for the season, you can cut the lawn shorter to about 2″. This will minimize the risk of mold buildup during winter.

5. Happy Grass

Choose a Locally Adapted Grass. Grasses can vary for each type of climate. Grasses are not equal; some prefer different amounts of water or prefer certain nutrients, have varying shade tolerance. Some even have a different degree of wear they can withstand. Ask your local garden center to recommend grass which is best adapted to your area.

We chose this topic of cancer free lawn because too much pesticides are being sprayed on our lawns and they are finding a direct correlation between cancer and pesticides. This topic is important. Making a healthy lawn will also invite wildlife in as well as bees, and right now the bees need our help.

About Diana Ross: E-RYT 500 restorative yoga teacher, survivor that cares and founder of Breast Cancer Yoga. Diana is making a difference with Breast Cancer Yoga therapeutic products designed to support you emotionally and physically during breast cancer . We want to give you the attention and personal service you need so please email us at info@breastcanceryoga.com if you have questions.

Disclaimer

Statements contained on this website have not been evaluated by the FDA. Information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent disease nor take the place of professional medical advice. If you are struggling with a serious health concern and are interested in utilizing a holistic method of healing, please contact a qualified health professional.